Pakistan Slips in Global Press Freedom Index as World Observes Press Freedom Day
As the world marks World Press Freedom Day, Pakistan has fallen six spots in the Global Press Freedom Index 2025, ranking 158 out of 180 countries, according to the latest report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). This marks a decline from its ranking of 152 in 2024. Previously, Pakistan stood at 157 in 2022, saw a brief improvement to 150 in 2023, but has now experienced a steady backslide.
While press freedom in Pakistan has worsened, neighboring India showed notable progress, rising eight positions to 151. Afghanistan also moved up modestly by three places, now ranking 175. Meanwhile, China mirrored Pakistan’s decline, dropping six spots to 178, while Iran’s position remains unchanged at 176, underscoring ongoing challenges for media freedom there. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, improved its standing by six spots, now ranking 166.
In North America, press freedom is also under strain. The United States slipped two places to 55th, highlighting growing concerns about journalistic freedoms even in established democracies. Canada saw a sharper fall, dropping from 14th to 21st. At the top, Norway continues to lead the Global Press Freedom Index, maintaining its long-held position as the world’s most press-friendly nation, followed closely by other Nordic countries.
The Global Press Freedom Index assesses how safely and independently journalists can work in each country, scoring them across five key indicators: political context, legal framework, economic pressures, sociocultural environment, and journalist safety. These factors are averaged to determine a country’s ranking, offering a comprehensive view of the global press landscape.
In Pakistan, recent developments have added to concerns. Earlier this year, the government passed amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), sparking protests from journalists who fear increased censorship and legal pressure. The government defended the changes, citing the need to combat so-called fake news on social media. Originally enacted in 2016, PECA’s expanded scope in 2025 has raised alarms about its impact on media freedom. Despite these concerns, Pakistan did see some improvement in law and order indicators in 2024.
This year’s Press Freedom Day theme highlights the crucial role of a free press in safeguarding democracy and holding power to account—principles that remain under pressure in many parts of the world, including Pakistan.
